Definition of the word grouse

The word "grouse" has its roots in the 15th-century Scottish word "gruse," which referred to a type of bird. It is believed to be derived from the Old Norse word "grausa," meaning "to growl" or "to murmur," likely due to the bird's distinctive call. The term initially referred specifically to the capercaillie, a large and distinctive game bird found in Scotland and other parts of Europe. Over time, the term came to be used more broadly to refer to other birds in the same family, including the ptarmigan and the red grouse. Today, "grouse" is commonly used in both its literal sense (to refer to the birds) and figurative sense (to describe someone who complains or is cantankerous).